William Grant & Sons UK has appointed Stephen Rutherford as its UK brand ambassador for Glenfiddich.

Rutherford will focus on generating brand awareness, building brand advocacy and bridging communication between the brand and consumers, bars & restaurants, retailers, distributors and press.

Rutherford will take over from Mark Thomson who is moving north to focus on Glenfiddich’s home territory as Scottish brand ambassador.

Rutherford’s drinks career started like many before him, at his local. But his first cocktail bar job was at Dusk in Aberdeen. A move to Orchid in Aberdeen saw Rutherford take on events, pop-ups, experimental menu creations and masterclasses. While at Orchid, Rutherford made it to the 2015 UK final of the Glenfiddich Malt Mastermind competition. He was appointed ‘Rum Development Specialist’ at William Grant & Sons UK, where he managed OVD and Wood’s Navy rum.